The 56th Orientation Camp for the newly admitted MBBS students of Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (MGIMS), Sevagram, culminated with a valedictory function held at Shanti Bhavan, Nai Talim, Sevagram on December 13, 2024. The event marked the conclusion of a fortnight-long program designed to imbibe Gandhian values and ethics in the budding doctors, a tradition integral to the institution since its inception.
The event was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries. Shri P.L. Tapadia (President, Kasturba Health Society), presided over the function, while Dr. Sumant Wagh, (Civil Surgeon of Wardha), was the Chief Guest. Also present on the dais were Dr. BS Garg (Secretary, Kasturba Health Society), Dr. AK Shukla (Dean, MGIMS), Dr. Poonam Shivkumar Varma (Medical Superintendent, Kasturba Hospital), and Dr. Siby Joseph (Director of the Sri Jamnalal Bajaj Memorial Library and Research Centre for Gandhian Studies). The function witnessed the participation of heads of departments, faculty, staff, and 100 students from the MBBS Batch of 2024.
The program commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. AK Shukla who highlighted the institute's commitment to nurturing compassionate and competent medical professionals rooted in Gandhian principles. "The lessons you've gained here will remain with you throughout your journey as medical professionals, shaping a unique foundation laid during your early days at MGIMS," he said.
In his presidential address, Shri P.L. Tapadiaji highlighted the institute’s efforts in shaping socially responsible students. “This Orientation Camp, or Sanskar Shivir, is a journey into values, discipline, and the ethos of service. It lays the foundation for our students to not only excel as doctors but also emerge as compassionate human beings committed to the betterment of society," Tapadiaji emphasized.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Sumant Wagh, encouraged the students to imbibe the teachings of the camp and strive for excellence in their careers while upholding ethics and compassion.
Dr. Ashwini Kalantri (Orientation Camp In-Charge and Professor of Community Medicine), presented a detailed report on the activities conducted during the camp, which included sessions on Gandhian philosophy, academic lectures, sports activities, cultural immersion programs, and team-building exercises amongst other activities. "27 hours of Gandhian thought lectures and 14,000 meters of khadi spun—this camp has been a journey of both intellectual growth and practical learning, instilling in our students the true essence of Gandhian values," said Dr. Ashwini.
Two students from the new batch, Mr. Nimish and Ms. Neha, shared their reflections on the camp experience, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to understand the ethos of Sevagram and the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. "Spinning khadi was a unique experience that taught us patience and precision. It takes practice to keep the thread from breaking," said Mr. Nimish. The batch also planted a Jamun tree, vowing to nurture it for the next five and a half years.
Dr. Subodh Gupta, Head of Community Medicine, declared Mr. Rudranil Chowdhury as the Best Student of the Orientation Camp. Dr. Abhishek Raut, Professor of Community Medicine, compered the event, while Dr. Anuj Mundra, Associate Professor of Community Medicine, delivered the vote of thanks.